Having played one fewer match than the North Londoners, the Toffees' European fate is now in their own hands, and the Scot claims that a top-four finish was the aim from day one of the campaign.

He told reporters at full time: "We played very well and didn't let them settle on the ball and keep possession.

"We knew it would be a battle for possession, it started from the back and Gareth Barry and James McCarthy were excellent in midfield.

When asked about the prospect of playing Champions League football next season, Naismith added: "It would mean everything. But we have believed from the start of the season and we have shown that in these recent performances."

First-half strikes from Naismith and Romelu Lukaku sent the Merseyside outfit into a 2-0 half-time lead, before an own goal from Everton old boy Mikel Arteta capped the comfortable win.